In Japan, Second Life Toys, has found a creative way to raise awareness about organ donation. The organization is repairing broken stuffed animals using limbs donated from old donated toys.

Every person who sends in his or her plushie for contribution gets a letter back from the “recipient” plushie, expressing gratitude and explaining how the generous act offered it a second chance at life.

The aim is to evoke joy among the donors, teaching both kids and their families about the truly life-giving impact of organ transplants.

It’s a sweet idea and the message behind it is important. Organ donation is an issue that doesn’t get much press in Japan and nor does it get much attention. Around 14,000 people are on waiting lists yet only about 300 of them per year receive the organs they need.

Hopefully this campaign can change this by raising some much needed awareness.